Soudal Quick-Step Cyclists Demonstrate Determination in Coppa Bernocchi

Andrea Bagioli achieved third place in Legnano following an impressive performance by the team.

The Soudal Quick-Step team showcased their commitment in the 104th edition of the Coppa Bernocchi. The race, which was founded over a century ago, played a significant role for our team [as] they aimed to make the race challenging on the 16.8km local lap featuring the Piccolo Stelvio. With 40 kilometers remaining, Dries Devenyns and Mauro Schmid made a massive effort, resulting in a split peloton and leaving only a limited number of riders in the lead for the final climb of the day.

At this stage, a selection was made, with only nine riders remaining in the race-winning move. Julian Alaphilippe, Andrea Bagioli, and Fausto Masnada of Soudal Quick-Step worked together to extend their advantage by taking long turns at the front, ultimately putting almost one minute into the chasers.

Alaphilippe’s dedication [to] helping Bagioli was admirable, as was Fausto’s commitment, as they drove the group forward on the flat roads towards Legnano. In the final kilometer, Bagioli positioned himself in third, ultimately achieving an impressive third place finish, coming behind Wout Van Aert (Jumbo-Visma). This podium finish marks Bagioli’s fifth of the season.

Reflecting on the race, Bagioli expressed his gratitude towards the team’s efforts, stating, “The team did a tremendous job in what was a hard race. We remained well positioned all the time and were really motivated to do our best. I knew it was going to be hard to win, but I gave my maximum there. We still have a few races left here in Italy and we’ll try to go for a good result in all of them.”

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